MINISTER for Finance, Hon. Thomas Opa, MP, has confirmed that the National Government has released K150 million to the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission (PNGEC) to support early preparations for the 2027 National General Elections.
The ceremonial dummy cheque presentation made on Thursday afternoon, 22 October 2026, was a symbolic gesture confirming that the K150 million had already been released and remitted electronically to the PNG Electoral Commission.
Minister Opa stated that the funding demonstrates the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to ensuring that the PNG Electoral Commission is adequately supported to deliver credible, transparent, free and fair elections in 2027.
“This is not merely a commitment or a promise of funding. The National Government has already released K150 million to the Electoral Commission to commence its critical election preparations.
“This funding will now enable the PNG Electoral Commissioner Dr Nicole Haley and her team to focus on the important preparatory work, including updating the common roll, addressing electoral boundary matters, procuring ballot papers and other major election-related requirements,” Minister Opa said.
He further emphasised that early funding is essential to avoid last-minute procurement challenges, logistical difficulties, and unnecessary delays that have affected previous elections.
“The 2027 General Elections are a significant national undertaking. We must begin preparations early, strengthen public confidence in our electoral processes and ensure that every eligible Papua New Guinean has the opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote.
“The Marape-Rosso government remain committed to supporting the PNG Electoral Commission in meeting its financial requirements, subject to the Government’s budgetary and financial processes,” Minister Opa said.
Minister Opa also called on all relevant government agencies to work closely with the PNG Electoral Commission to ensure coordinated and timely preparations for the 2027 General Elections.